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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in La Mesa

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66 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Casa Gabriela restaurant
1. Casa Gabriela
4.7
Exceptional(750)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • La Mesa
Booked 47 times today
Chef Gabriela Lopez brings her elevated Mexican cuisine to Downtown La Mesa. Using her grandmother's recipes from Guadalajara crossed with her cosmopolitan upbringing in Tijuana, Chef Gabriela's menu features authentic hand-crafted dishes and imaginative takes on classic dishes. All of Baja California is represented along with influences from other regions in Mexico.The spacious outdoor garden, cozy loft, and private dining areas are the perfect places to enjoy tequila and mezcal based cocktails, family celebrations, or brunch with friends.
A photo of Giardino Neighborhood Cucina restaurant
2. Giardino Neighborhood Cucina
4.8
Exceptional(1069)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Lemon Grove
Booked 11 times today
Located in the middle of Lemon Grove’s charming downtown area, Giardino is a welcoming and casual Italian inspired cucina where the neighborhood gathers for fresh and flavorful classic dishes found throughout Italy.Giardino offers an Italian-inspired menu of seasonally-driven dishes that use timeless Italian techniques and fresh ingredients. Guests will find items such as fresh seafood, pastas, pizzas and salads, as well as a variety of elements made in-house.
A photo of Antica Trattoria restaurant
3. Antica Trattoria
4.8
Exceptional(2386)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • La Mesa
Booked 27 times today
Antica Trattoria is a warm restaurant with an old-fashioned sense of hospitality that quickly became a gathering place for dinners in Lake Murray and the rest of San Diego when it opened in 2001. For Executive Chef and Owner Francesco Basile, good cuisine is about honest flavors, fresh ingredients, and simplicity. That's the kind of food he grew up eating by the seaside in Sicily and it's what he learned in culinary school in Italy.Why eat ordinary when you can eat extraordinary?About reservations: We have a 15-minute grace period. Please call us if you will be running later than 15 minutes. If a later time slot is available, you may be able to switch your reservation.We may contact you, so please ensure your email and phone number are up to date. Your table will be reserved for 1 hour 30 minutes for parties of up to 4 guests; 2 hours for parties of 5 to 8 guests; and 2 hours 30 minutes for parties of 9+. We cannot guarantee special request for tables.
A photo of Farmer's Table - La Mesa restaurant
4. Farmer's Table - La Mesa
4.4
Awesome(2016)
Price: Moderate
• Farm-to-table • La Mesa
Booked 18 times today
Excited to announce that we officially have four locations open in San Diego including Bay Park, Little Italy, La Mesa, and Chula Vista. As a family run operation we believe every good neighborhood deserves an eatery where locals and visitors can enjoy “honest food done right”. Here at Farmers Table, we specialize in farm-to-fork cuisine that focuses on bringing locally sourced organic ingredients together to be savored in an inviting family-friendly atmosphere, where adults and children can enjoy many different food options that are just right for them. If you are looking for a magical brunch this week, come stop by for an unforgettable night.
A photo of Limoncello La Mesa restaurant
5. Limoncello La Mesa
4.6
Exceptional(303)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 17 times today
Welcome to Limoncello, your go-to destination for authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of La Mesa. At Limoncello, we pride ourselves on delivering a true taste of Italy with our carefully curated menu inspired by traditional family recipes passed down through generations. Our dishes showcase the rich flavors of Italy, crafted using only the finest and freshest ingredients sourced locally and from Italy. From classic pasta dishes to mouthwatering pizzas and delectable desserts, each plate is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage. Come savor the warmth and hospitality of Italy right here in La Mesa at Limoncello, where every meal is a journey to the heart of Italian flavors.
A photo of El Torito - La Mesa restaurant
6. El Torito - La Mesa
4.6
Exceptional(446)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • La Mesa
Booked 6 times today
The authority in great Mexican food for over 70 years! Visit us for weekly celebrations where we infuse tradition with authentic Mexican cuisine, including $4 happy hour, $3 Taco Tuesday, Saturday Breakfast and All-You-Can-Eat + Drink Sunday Brunch. Experience a celebration of Family, Food & Community!
A photo of Black Angus Steakhouse - El Cajon restaurant
7. Black Angus Steakhouse - El Cajon
4.2
Awesome(2147)
Price: Moderate
• Steakhouse • El Cajon / Lakeside
Booked 20 times today
WE’VE BEEN MASTERING OUR CRAFT SINCE 1964, so you could say we know a thing or two. Our cuts are aged at least 21 days, seasoned to excellence, expertly flame-grilled and served up just the way you like it. You’ve earned it. Whether you’re here to throw back a couple with old friends or trying to finish off the High Noon Feast on your own, there’s always a seat for you. So here’s to the nights you can’t remember and the steaks you won’t forget.
A photo of Lemon Grove Bistro restaurant
8. Lemon Grove Bistro
4.9
Exceptional(87)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lemon Grove
Booked 7 times today
In addition to offering comforting American favorites, our menu provides a selection of flavors inspired by our chef’s culinary experiences, ranging from classic Spanish fare to Italian favorites. Our menu changes seasonally to feature the freshest ingredients and provide an exciting dining experience throughout the year.The Lemon Grove Bistro is in a historic mission-style building in the heart of Lemon Grove. Since 1912, it’s been a place where locals meet and build connections, whether they were picking up their mail at the Sonka General Store in 1944 or ordering custom cakes at the Grove Pastry Shop in 2012. Come for the food. Stay to experience the inviting ambiance of the historic building and its new garden. Let’s build community--together.
A photo of Books + Records restaurant
9. Books + Records
4.7
Exceptional(379)
Price: Expensive
• American • Banker's Hill
Booked 31 times today
Global inspired American cuisine, craft cocktails, and weekend brunch in an upbeat atmosphere, with live music.Chef Ryan Stickel is serving up San Diego's freshest food takes in an art deco meets mid-century mod warehouse space. With a tenured run on both Eater's Heat Map and list of San Diego's Hottest Cocktail Bars, the food and drinks are both guaranteed to delight your senses.
A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
10. Herb & Wood
4.7
Exceptional(6476)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 99 times today
A timeless, sought-after dining escape, celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey opened Herb & Wood to instant acclaim over four years ago. In that time, the restaurant has become an icon, a dining destination that has helped to propel San Diego's culinary reputation to new heights. By focusing on rustic, wood-fired dishes, Chef Malarkey's menu elevates humble ingredients such as carrots, beets, and chicken, incorporating Mediterranean flavors and a California ethos of seasonality and sustainability.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Delzio
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Christmas dinner at Giardino’s was nothing short of magical! The cozy atmosphere, twinkling lights, and festive décor made it feel like stepping into a holiday wonderland. The food was absolutely incredible, each dish was bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The staff was warm, attentive, and made sure every detail was just right. It was the perfect place to celebrate the season with loved ones. Can’t wait to come back next year!
    More info
    Giardino Neighborhood CucinaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Lemon Grove
    •
    4.8
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We were there mid afternoon Christmas Day. It wasn’t to crouched and the service was good. Food was great. They have a nice patio dining area and an open air bar that were fairly quiet, but I did notice inside was kind of noisy due to all hard surfaces. Overall very nice experience.
    More info
    Farmer's Table - La MesaPrice: Moderate• Farm-to-table• La Mesa
    •
    4.4
  • Eileen
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Had the Holiday meal and it was delicious! Service was excellent!
    More info
    Limoncello La MesaPrice: Moderate• Italian• North Park
    •
    4.6
  • Crystian
    Las Vegas •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Everything was great, as usual! The only thing was that the live musicians were way too loud. We had 6 at a table and we couldn’t hear each other speaking. We were having to yell which was unpleasant. Also, the music style was unfortunately kinda odd. Karaoke style covers of 80’s songs. A nice acoustic Spanish guitar would have been much more enjoyable. We were excited to hear they were going to have live music at our brunch, then really wished it would stop after a few very loud and awkward songs. Hate to say this because we really love the restaurant and the food!!
    More info
    Casa GabrielaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• La Mesa
    •
    4.7
  • TyroneVIP
    Houston •91 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 14, 2024
    Everything was great! The Sea Bass special is always out of this world and service is always fantastic... thanks to waitstaff like Levi & Heather
    More info
    Antica TrattoriaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• La Mesa
    •
    4.8

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in La Mesa

Discover the charm of neighborhood gems in La Mesa, East County, San Diego, where culinary delights meet cozy ambiance. This vibrant dining scene offers a treasure trove of eateries that are perfect for those looking to enjoy a meal in a more intimate, local setting. From authentic sushi bars to classic Italian bistros, each restaurant prides itself on delivering exceptional food quality, warm hospitality, and a memorable dining experience. Patrons can expect to find venues that boast both excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere, making each meal a special occasion. These neighborhood gems are highly recommended for anyone seeking a delightful culinary journey in La Mesa. Whether you're planning a family dinner, a date night, or a gathering with friends, these establishments promise to provide an enjoyable and satisfying dining experience.

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